Materials & Making
A closer look at the fabrics and craftsmanship behind Vetch & Clover.
Every Vetch & Clover garment begins with the choice of fabric. I work primarily with natural fibres, selecting materials for their texture, weight, comfort and how they complement each design.
From the softness of cotton voile to the more structured feel of ramie and cotton, each fabric has its own qualities. Part of the pleasure of designing clothes is discovering how a particular material can bring an idea to life.
The cloth comes first...
I have a particular love for natural fibres, choosing each fabric for its texture, comfort and the way it complements the design.
Cotton
Cotton is one of the fabrics I work with most. Its versatility makes it suitable for everything from light, delicate chemises to comfortable blouses and fuller skirts. I use several different weaves, each chosen for the qualities it brings to a garment.
Linen
I love linen for its natural texture, breathability and the way it softens with wear. It's particularly lovely for relaxed clothing and garments intended for warmer weather.
Ramie & Cotton
This blend is a favourite for my skirts and trousers. It has a beautiful weight and enough structure to hold the shape of a garment, while still allowing plenty of movement.
Natural fibres are at the heart of the fabrics I work with, although I occasionally use recycled synthetics for details such as ribbons and trims.
Where a fabric carries a certification, such as OEKO-TEX®, you'll find this noted in the individual product description.
Made to order
I make most Vetch & Clover garments to order, rather than producing large quantities of clothing in advance.
This allows me to make each piece in the fabric, size and length chosen by the customer, with additional adjustments available for certain designs. It also helps me avoid making more clothing than is needed.
Naturally, this means there is a waiting period. Each garment takes its turn in the making queue before being cut, sewn, finished and prepared for dispatch.
Current making times are provided before you place your order.
Made for you
Some of my special and custom-made garments carry a small personalised label inside, bearing two details:
Made for: ________
Date: ________
I add the customer's name and the date by hand before the garment leaves the studio.
It's a small detail, but one I particularly love. I like the thought of someone discovering that label years from now and knowing a little about the garment's beginnings.
Made for different bodies
Bodies are wonderfully less predictable than standard size charts.
Alongside the standard sizing, selected Vetch & Clover garments can be made to individual measurements or adapted in particular ways.
Because every design behaves differently, the options available will vary from garment to garment.
If you'd like something made especially for your measurements, you can discover what's possible here.
Someone made this.
Most Vetch & Clover garments don't exist until somebody chooses them.
01 - CHOSEN
Your order reaches its turn in our little making queue.
02 - CUT
Your fabric is selected, measurements checked and pattern pieces carefully cut.
03 - SEWN
Piece by piece, flat cloth begins becoming your garment.
04 - FINISHED
Buttons, fastenings and finishing touches are added before everything is checked and pressed.
05 - MADE FOR YOU
Selected special and custom pieces receive a label bearing your name and the date they were made.
06 - SENT HOME
Your finished garment is wrapped, packed and sent from Devon to begin its life with you.
A little studio in Devon
Vetch & Clover is based in a small studio in the Devon countryside.
It's painted white to make the most of the natural light, although the reality usually involves thread on the floor, fabric across the cutting table and a cup of tea beside the sewing machine.
I usually have an audiobook or podcast playing while I work, with the occasional visit from a cat at the window.
Over time, I've developed a weekly routine that helps me manage the different stages of making:
MONDAY - CUT & DRAFT
Fabric is cut, patterns are prepared and custom adjustments are drafted.
TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY - SEW
The week's cut pieces begin their transformation at the sewing machine.
THURSDAY - FINISH
Buttons, fastenings and final details are added. Loose threads are trimmed and garments are checked.
FRIDAY - PRESS, WRAP & SEND
Finished pieces are pressed and carefully packed before beginning their journey to you.
Made by people
My approach to making clothes is quite simple: make them properly, and make them to be worn.
I care about the construction of each garment, from choosing a suitable fabric to finishing the seams and adding the final details. I want the clothes I make to be comfortable, practical where they need to be, and able to withstand regular wear.
As with anything made individually, there may be small differences from one piece to another. But my aim is always to produce a garment that has been carefully made and will be enjoyed for years to come.
